The dosimetric and clinical comparison between helical tomotherapy and fixed-field intensity-modulated radiotherapy in radical irradiation for cervical cancer

To compare the dosimetric parameters, clinical complications, and efficacy of helical tomotherapy (HT) and fixed-field intensity-modulated radiotherapy (f-IMRT) in radical radiotherapy for cervical cancer.

From November 2016 to December 2018, 77 cervical cancer patients in radical irradiation were selected, 38 patients undergoing treatment with HT and 39 with f-IMRT. The dosimetic parameters, clinical complications, and efficacy were compared.

The homogeneity index (HI) and conformity index (CI) of HT plans were both superior to those of f-IMRT plans(P=0.000). HT plans resulted in a reduction in the dosimetric parameters of organs at risk (OARs) (P<0.05) except the V10 of small intestine (P=0.682). The incidence of myelosuppression showed no significant differences (P=0.265).The patients with HT had no radiocystitis, grade 2 or above radiation proctitis. The complete remission (CR) rates, efficacy rates (CR+PR) and local control rates of two years were 81.58%,100% and 97.37%.

HT showed advantages in dosimetry, and provided more superior clinical results. It has a good application prospect in radical irradiation for cervical cancer.